It Only Takes Two

O. T. #2290 "It only Takes Two"

Sept. 30, 2022

Zechariah 4-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Do you ever get weary in doing well, carrying a load, tasks and duties required to get done, pain that won't go away? You are not alone, dear one. I couldn't sleep last night, not able to get comfortable on my hurt shoulder. So after a while, I was up until 3 am studying for this lesson and our women's study at church. It turns out, that was what I needed for my mind and soul. I was able to sleep after that. Imagine that!

Isn't it amazing that one day we will get to meet these Old Testament prophets we have been studying? Also, the disciples and Paul and the servants in the Temple. Most of all, we will meet our Jesus, our Savior, King, Redeemer, Provider, Healer, our Everything!

To finish out the rest of chapter 4, the two olive trees on the sides of the candlestick are representative of Joshua, the high priest, and Zerubbabel the governor and high priest. It was through them that God would manifest His light and the Holy Spirit of God in order to accomplish the work of God in Israel and in the world. The rebuilding of the Temple was completed through those two leaders. (It had stopped for about 10 years.) Keep in mind that Israel was still under the rule of Persia and could not have their own king then.

So we see how important our leaders are, both church and government. We should be praying God's will to be revealed to them and they follow it. Are you in a leadership role, friend? Come to the table and eat from God's Word for your soul. Drink from the fountain of Living Water, Jesus Christ. His supply never ends.  

LET IT GROW

 Zerubbabel was the descendant of King David and Joshua the high priest was a descendant of Eleazar, the high priest. What a blessing the children of Israel had with godly leaders! 

They foreshadowed the coming Messiah, who will reign in both offices-King and High Priest. This will be during the Millennial reign. Israel will rebuild the Temple during this time. (Ezekiel 40-48) They will fulfill their role as a light to the nations as the Messiah rules all on behalf of the Lord of the earth. (Tony Evans)

Revelation 11 tells about two witnesses who prophesy, have power over the rain, yet are killed by the evil ones. God will raise them from the dead and people in the street will see them ascend into heaven. Wow!

Remember, there are no small ministries nor small servants in God's kingdom work. God can empower us who are dedicated to doing His will, His way. He can cleanse us daily in preparation for today's task. So in your corner of the world, keep on keeping on, trusting in Jesus, being filled with the Spirit, loving others, sharing the gospel.

LET IT GO

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me;

I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I sees.

Father, bless all who are workers in the field, spreading the seed of Your love.

Lift us up, Lord, as we grow weary in doing well.

Glory to God in the Highest!

Don't Despise Small Things

O. T. #2289  "Don't Despise Small Things"

Sept. 29, 2022 

Zechariah 4-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

I have told the way our previous church built its new sanctuary with classrooms and offices. People donated money and time and skills so we were able to build it debt free. God can do anything.

The two olive trees beside the Menorah represented Zerubbabel and Joshua. The LOED had sent words directly to Zerubbabel in verses 6-10:

• It was not by military power (Israel had no military at that time); it was not by men's power (especially Zerubbabel); but it was by the Spirit of the LORD that enabled them to rebuild the Temple (after 10 years of delay). 
• By God's power, Zerubbabel would level the impossible mountain of the Jews. The unfinished Temple was their problem. The mountain would become a plain.
• When it was accomplished, there would be shouts of joy, "Grace, grace unto it."
• Zerubbabel's hands laid the foundation and would finish it.

A child of God on a mission of God is indispensable and indestructible. When it is God's program we are doing, His omniscience and omnipotence will accomplish what is impossible for people. (Luke 1:37)

God tells us, "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)

LET IT GROW

Who has despised the day of small things? Look at verse 10. A mountain to us is just a small thing to God. 

David Jeremiah tells the story of Hattie May. Her church in Philadelphia, in 1912, was crowded. The pastor, Dr. Conwell told Hattie May that he would love to have buildings large enough for everyone to attend. Hattie had been saving her money to help build a bigger church building. There was 57 cents in her purse. At her funeral, the pastor displayed Hattie's money in pennies. Proceeds came in and the church had enough to buy a nearby house for the children's wing. Eventually, the 57 cents was multiplied and buildings of Temple Baptist Church, Temple University, and Good Samaritan Hospital were built. 

Do you feel your gifts, time, talents, and efforts are too small to make a difference? Have you given them to God completely and asked Him to bless them richly? Our words of witness, our undertakings, and gifts can them be multiplied beyond anything we can ask or imagine. Remember to give God the glory when it happens.

LET IT GO 

Help our faith to grow so You can multiply what we give.

May we hold onto our Hope. for You never fail, nor are late.

Take courage in Jesus. 

Glory to God in the Highest!

Strength Provided

O. T. #2288 "Strength Provided"

Sept. 28, 2022

Zechariah 4-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Are you in need of strength and supply of something? I am so in need of strength for my neck and shoulder after our car accident. Read on to find out how we can have it.

The fifth vision of Zechariah concerns a golden candlestick and two olive trees. Jesus was speaking to the prophet in this vision, asking him what Zechariah saw. First, he saw a candlestick with a bowl on its top, and 7 lamps on it with 7 pipes on each lamp. This Menorah was one directed to Moses in which the Temple was provided light for the priest to carry out his duties of sacrifices. The high priest kept the lamps burning day and night.

Jesus is our Great High Priest walking in the middle of the lampstands which represented the 7 churches in Asia Minor (in Revelation). He warned the church that if they did not repent of their sins He would remove their lampstands. He did just that. In modern Turkey today not one of those churches is in existence. They all lie in ruins. Christ removed their lampstands. In our own land our Great High Priest has closed the door of many a church which was not giving out the Word of God. (J. Vernon McGee)

In the Bible, oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. The light represents Christ because He is the Light of the World. Are we quenching the Spirit? Is God's Truth and Word being preached and taught in your church? 

LET IT GROW

The second thing Zechariah saw in this vision was two olive trees. They are situated each beside the candlestick. These two witnesses in Israel during that time were Zerubbabel the governor and Joshua the high priest. 

What message does Jesus send to Zerubbabel in verse 6? Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.

God gave Zerubbabel the strength and supplies to complete his task rebuilding the Temple. However, the work was spiritual and can be accomplished only through the abundant supply of the Spirit of God, which only the Lord of Hosts, our God, can supply.

In Revelation 11, there will be 2 witnesses for God during the Tribulation.

We need the Holy Spirit to guide us and strengthen us as we do God's will. So be encouraged and ask for help. 

My spirit remains among you. Do not fear. (Haggai 2:5)

There are three ways we can do the work of God-trust our own strength and wisdom, borrow the resources of the world, or we can depend on the power of God. (Wiersbe)

LET IT GO

Lord, we need Your strength and wisdom to carry out Your will.

We stand amazed at what You have already done, arose from the grave.

Grace, grace, God's grace; grace that is greater than all our sin. 

Thank You for supplying all we need to do Your will, for Your glory.

The Light of the World

O. T. #2287  "The Light of the World"

Sept. 27, 2022

Zechariah 4

LET IT GLOW

Now Zechariah saw the fifth vision given by Jesus. The details he saw were:

• a golden candlestick
• with a bowl upon the top of it
• his 7 lamps thereon
• 7 pipes on each of the 7 lamps.

The candlestick (Menorah) was familiar to Israel. Moses gave directions for it in Exodus 25 and 37. In the holy place of the Tabernacle, in front of the veil and to the left of the altar of incense, stood a golden candlestick with 7 branches. (You can google Menorah for a picture of it.) At the end of each branch was a golden lamp. The high priest trimmed the wicks and provided the oil needed to keep the lamp burning morning and evening as part of his duty. 

This candlestick which Zechariah saw was different in that there was a bowl at the top into which the olive oil from 2 trees dripped into it. There was a total of 49 pipes from the bowl to each lamp. The provided ample supply of fuel, limitless, kept the lights burning was continuous. 

Zerubbabel was the civic leader in Jerusalem who was to keep the rebuilding work going. Joshua was the high priest responsible for the spiritual things. God was the supplier of all. These two are represented in the two olive trees. 

Who is your supplier of all things and things needed?

LET IT GROW

Biblical history tells us that the second Temple was completed. There are some symbolic meanings provided by Wiersby:

• The Tabernacle candlestick is the nation of Israel, chosen by God to be the spiritual light in a spiritually dark world. (Isaiah 60, 62)
• The Menorah is an official symbol of the modern state of Israel.
• The light was burning very low for the remnant, but Zerubbabel gave Israel enough encouragement to finish the task.
• Today, the church is a light in the dark world, spiritually. The Holy Spirit enables us to bear witness of Jesus in us.
• Local churches are individual lampstands to give the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. 

If we do not what Christ commands us to do, He may take away the lampstand. (Rev. 1-3)

LET IT GO

Thank You, Father, for giving us spiritual light in Jesus.

Oh, what a Savior! Isn't He wonderful!

Christ is risen.

Bow down before Him.

Need a Rock to Stand On?

O. T. #2286 "Need a Rock to Stand On?"

Sept. 26, 2022

Zechariah 3-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

I am still sore from the accident Thursday. (writing this Saturday) Probably I will go to the doctor to get my shoulder and arm checked out. I thank God for His protective hand upon us all. No broken bones. Some way this will turn out for my good and God's glory. 

Believer, do you realize that our God is always watching over us?

The LORD thy God in the midst (nearest part; heart; thought) of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing. (Zephaniah 2:17)

Friend, if you do not feel the Lord God with you, trust Jesus as your Savior, believe He is God's Son, the One who died on the cross to take away your sins, that He arose from the dead and lives forever more. 

If He seems distant, then your sins are keeping a gulf between you and the Savior. Confess them and obey His Word. Then you will feel God in your midst, in your heart, in your mind. What a blessing it is to know we are not alone.

LET IT GROW

A good preacher friend of ours, gone onto heaven, wrote these words describing Jesus Christ:

• Jesus is the Capstone, Headstone. 
• Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone. (Acts 4:10-12)
• Jesus is the Stone. (Matt. 21:42)
• Jesus is the Rock. (Matt. 16:13)
• Jesus is the Stone of Heaven. (Daniel 12:14; 2:34-35)

Jesus is rock solid. When the winds of life blow hard against us, when the floods of trials try to drown us, like Peter, when we need something to uphold us from sinking into sin, Jesus is the answer, our Rock and Stone. When we stand on Him, we will not fall down, drown, be defeated.  

LET IT GO

Great is Your love, grace, and mercy, Jesus!

Remember us in our hard times, O God.

Your grace is enough for me.

 Good morning,

Just to let you know I will not be writing  today. We were in a car accident last night and my right arm is sore. A teenage boy hit my side of the car after not stopping at a stop sign. I am ok, just sore. 

God had his hand on us. My husband was able to turn the car so we hit the ditch. Glad they were not hurt. Only his pickup. And he had to tell his dad about it.

Check back Monday for another study. Have a blessed day and weekend. 

Linda

Peace and Security

 O. T. #2285   "Peace and Security"

Sept. 22, 2022

Zechariah 3-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

If you ever get a chance to see the production by the Sight and Sound company "Jesus," I highly encourage it. It highlights some of the miracles He did for people because of love. Then to see some of the things He endured before the cross. It will touch your heart and make you thankful for His endurance. (A purchase of the viewing of the film is also available.)

Shall we dig a little deeper into verses 8-9? Jesus is referred to as God's Servant the Branch. As the prophet depicts the Messiah Jesus, he speaks of His complete obedience and His humble estate. Certainly, all that Jesus did was because He loved the people and had compassion on them as He healed so many diseases and infirmities.

In Isaiah 42:1, the Servant is none other than Christ Jesus Himself. He is the elect (chosen or set apart for a definite purpose). God put His Spirit upon Jesus. God was delighted in Jesus. He will bring judgment to the Gentiles, and salvation to the believers.

The Branch points to the Messiah, His humble beginnings and His fruitfulness. Jeremiah 23:5 we read, Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a Righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

The Branch was not a twig or branch of a tree, but a sprout from a fallen tree or a sprout directly out of the ground from a root, forming a second tree. 

Jesus is the rejected Stone, a stone of stumbling, a stone of refuge, a destroying stone, and a foundation stone. this Stone is depicted as having 7 eyes, a symbol of omniscience and infinite intelligence. Christ is the Living Stone who sees all; is a perfect, divine Person; a gracious Mediator. (Rev. 5:6)

Is Jesus your King? Does He reign on the throne of your heart, mind, soul? Or do other things, or even you? Are we His servant?

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, The MacArthur Bible Commentary, The Wiersbe Bible Commentary]

LET IT GROW

Friend, are you in need of peace and security? Turn to Jesus. do you need cleansing from sins, turn to Jesus. Come as you are. He loves you so much that Jesus gave up His very life so you can have eternal life in heaven with Him. He paid the price so we would not have to pay for our sins. Call out to Jesus and He will hear your cry for salvation and forgiveness. He can heal broken hearts, too.

Verse 10 says, In that day, saith the LORD of Hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbor under the vines and under the fig tree.

In the Millennium time, Israel will experience:

• There will be no enemies, only neighbors.
• Their sins will be removed.
• There will be no danger, warfare, nor violence.
• No poverty will exist, only prosperity.
• Peace and security will be experienced.

Every man will have piece under the vine and fig tree. (1 Kings 4:25) What a day that will be! Truly, the Israelites needed to get busy rebuilding the Temple where they could worship God and experience His presence with them. Certainly, their future will be marvelous when Jesus returns to earth to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are the Way, the Truth, the Life; this I believe.

Your are my Rock of salvation upon which I can stand.

You are our hope. Take away our fears and doubts. 

May we be Your servant today.

A Servant, Branch, Stone

 O. T. #2284 "A Servant, Branch, Stone"

Sept. 21, 2022

Zechariah 3-Part 3

LET IT GLOW 

In chapter 3, Zechariah tells us about the fourth vision or message he received from the Lord. The details pertain to the anointed-Joshua, the adversary-Satan, the advocate-Jesus Christ, and the ablution (washing filthy garments). This applies to Israel's restoration to the service of God, the coming of Messiah, and to the millennial reign.

We pick up at verses 8-10. (Keep in mind that Joshua is another name for Jesus and Zechariah, for Zechariah is a type of Jesus). Note that Zechariah, the high priest, and his fellow priests, are being addressed here. Those young priests are Zech's disciples under his teachings. They and we believers today are in wonder at (a wonderful deed, miraculous sign, wonder) what God will do in the future. 

Now we will focus on the Servant-Branch-Stone, which are name for Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Messiah. 

First of all, Jesus is referred to as the Servant, God's Servant, which is spoken of as My Servant (doer, tiller, slave). He was the suffering Servant. He modeled servanthood when Jesus came to dwell among mankind. He became a servant when He obeyed God's will. He was a servant when He washed the feet of His disciples, as well as when He died on the cross, giving His life as a ransom for us all. What an examples Jesus is for us, to live as a servant to others and unto our God. 

I will bring forth My servant the BRANCH. (verse 8)

In the Hebrew language, Branch means sprout.

Isaiah 11:1 says, and there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots. 

Secondly, from the Davidic line came the Messiah, the Lion of Judah, the Branch that was a stem and a shoot from David. 

There was a great big pecan tree in our backyard for about 40 years. It had huge branches and provided great shade and numerous pecans throughout the years. I never asked, but I assumed Mom planted it there. As a child, I would climb up the tree and perch in the fork of the branches, observing my kingdom. But a strong storm came and caused some of those huge branches to fall on our wellhouse and house. It had to be cut down. Just this spring, after many years, a group of sprouts popped up. Since I have been watering them through the drought, they are over 2 feet tall. The roots of the old tree had remained, and shoots grew, which are becoming branches. So it is was with David and Jesus. What a plan our God had and still has!

Friend, have you trusted in the Servant and Branch Jesus Christ as your Savior? If not, today is the day. Ask His forgiveness of your sins, believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and be your Savior. What a blessing it is when you do.

LET IT GROW

Third, the stone in verse 9 is the Messiah, Christ Jesus. He is the Stone of Israel, whom the builders refused, the foundation and Corner Stone of the spiritual building, the church. The graving engraved upon the stone is ornamental, beautiful, desirable, and perfect. With 7 eyes, the Living Stone Christ sees all. When Christ returns to earth, He will remove the iniquity of Israel. 

Jesus Christ is the Servant-Branch-Stone. What an encouragement for us today! We can rely upon this Stone to take us into heaven to dwell with Him forever.

 LET IT GO 

Use us to be Your servant today. Help us extend Your branch of love to others today. May we stand on the Rock of Ages and stand for Your Word and ways.

How Are We Walking?

O. T. #2283  "How Are We Walking ?" 

Sept. 20, 2022 

Zechariah 3-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

When Satan stood by Joshua, the high priest, to accuse him, the Lord Jesus came to Joshua's defense with a rebuke for Satan. (verse 2) Then Jesus removed Joshua's filthy clothes (represented by his sins) and clothed him with festive robes and a clean turban, priestly attire. (verses 4-5) Jesus took away Joshua's sins. Did you catch that? It is the blood of Jesus that He sacrificed by dying on the cross, which can do that, save our soul. Not a day goes by that we do not need forgiveness of our sins and being set free from our slavery to sin. 

Revelation 12:10 tells us that Christians conquer Satan by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.

LET IT GROW

If we want to be used by God, we must stay clean, so our soul is not dirty with sin. Keep fessed up. Verse 6 says that Jesus protested, which means cause to testify.

Now that Joshua is saved, God gives him a renewed commission and warning:

• Walk in God's ways; keep His charge (ordinance) you walk in God's ways. 
• Then you will be given authority over Jesus' Temple and its courtyards.
• If you do, they you will walk among these others standing here.

In other words, Joshua is required to keep his personal life in conformity with the ways of the Lord. If he faithfully performs his priestly duties according to God's instructions, then Joshua would have unlimited access among the angelic beings in the Temple. Blessings will follow.

Friend, are you faithful to do what God has called you to do, with love and joy? 

LET IT GO 

Thank You for Your grace and mercy, Jesus. Help us to daily remain faithful as we serve You. 

Do You Need Cleansing From Sin?

O. T. #2282"Do You Need Cleansing From Sin?"

Sept. 19, 2022

Zechariah 3

LET IT GLOW

What a week I have had-jealousy, anger, impatience, selfishness. Yet, Jesus still loves me. I can come to His table, cleansed, to sit down and sup with Him in His Word. Forgiveness is always available. Jesus is our Bread of Life and Living Water for our soul. Such love!!

In this chapter, we read about the fourth vision or message given to Zechariah. What did the prophet see? 

• Joshua, the high priest, standing before the angel of the LORD, who is Jesus Christ.
•  Satan (Accuser) was standing at Jesus' right hand making accusations against Joshua.
•  Jesus rejected his accusations and rebuked Satan. (Resist means accuse.)
• This man is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire. (Jesus said.)
• Joshua was standing there in filthy (soiled, as if excrementitiously) clothing before Jesus. 
• Jesus said to the others standing there, to take off the priest's filthy clothes.
• Jesus told Joshua, "See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes. (verse 4)

There are several names in the Bible for Satan-evil one (Matt. 6:13), the devil, the ancient serpent, the great dragon (Rev. 12:9), god of this age (2 Cor. 4:4), ruler of the power of the air (Eph. 2:2), the one who deceives the whole world (Rev. 12:9). This chief demon has set up a rival kingdom in opposition to God. (Matt. 12:26) He tempted Adam and Eve to reject God's Word and still tempts us today. He seeks to hinder the work of God's kingdom in the world. (Mark 4:15) 

Satan is the accuser of our brothers and sisters and us before our God both day and night. (Rev. 12:10) We read what happened to Job's life when Satan accused him before God.

Did you notice that Jesus came to Joshua's defense with a rebuke for Satan? (verse 2) The filthy clothes represented Joshua's sins before God. (verse 3) Jesus removed his iniquity and clothed Joshua with festive robes and a clean turban. (verses 4-5) Mitre is a head-dress; a piece of cloth wrapped around; a hood. Then Joshua was clean before the LORD God, acceptable to perform his priestly duties.

[Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

Friend, we have all sinned and fallen short of God's standards. So we need a Savior to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us of all our unrighteousness. Jesus is the Only One who can do that. He is the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior? Are there others who need to hear this Good News in your life?

LET IT GROW

Jesus took away the sins of Joshua. Then He charged Joshua to walk in His ways, keep His mandates, and rule His house (Temple). What was the promise for the priest if he obeyed? Jesus would give him places to walk among these that stand by. (verse 7) His position and purpose were restored, just as our can be when we repent of our sins. What grace!(John 21)

LET IT GO 

Thank You Jesus for Your grace, love, forgiveness, and mercy!

I fail You daily. How wonderful You are sweet Jesus!

Set us free from the sins that have us in chains.

With Whom Are We In Step?

O. T. #2281  " With Whom Are We In Step?"

Sept. 16, 2022

Zechariah 2-Part 6

Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for He is raised up out of His holy habitation. (verse 13)

LET IT GLOW

Are you like me and find it hard to sit in silence before the Lord? 

The Lord is in heaven, then during His Millennial reign, Jesus will come down to earth. He is raised up, not in the sense of rising from sleep, but in the sense of a lion or a bear that has been aroused from its den or lair. Jesus will embark upon His plan, and the outcome is certain for the enemies of Israel, for Israel, and for the Gentiles who through Israel will be drawn into fellowship with Israel's God. (Falwell)

God will be in His holy Temple, therefore, let the whole earth keep silent before Him. What a day when our Lord Jesus will be visible on earth! The Old Testament believers looked forward to this. The New Testament believers experienced this, and we believers in the church age are looking into the future for this. 

God has a plan and He is working out His plan. Are we trusting Him? 

LET IT GROW

What a glorious kingdom that is coming! It provides us with hope, encouragement, and comfort. 

From the three visions, we have learned that:

• God watches the nations and know what they are doing.
• He judges the nations for their sins, especially for their mistreatment of Israel.
• There is a glorious future planned for Jerusalem and the Jewish nation.
• When the Messiah returns, they will by cleansed and restored to the glory of God in their midst. (Wiersbe)

No wonder we are taught to pray, "Thy kingdom come." (Matt. 6:10) Then we are praying for the peace of Jerusalem. It will only come when the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ reigns in glory.

In the meantime, God has a plan and a purpose for each one of us. He is working in your life and in my life. He works in our hearts both to will and to do of His good pleasure. 

LET IT GO 

Keep us in step with You, Jesus, following Your will, doing it Your way, for Your glory.

May we stay on Your path going the same direction You are going!

In What Do You Delight?

O. T. #2280  "In What do You Delight?"

Sept. 15, 2022 

Zechariah 2-Part 5

And the LORD shall inherit Judah His portion in the holy land, and shall choose Jerusalem again. (verse 12)

LET IT GLOW

this is the only place in the Bible where the phrase "holy land" appears. 

The Jews will have all their ancient dignities and privileges restored to them again:

• Canaan shall be a holy land again, not polluted by sin nor profaned by its enemies.
• Judah shall be in this holy land, inhabited and comforted, no longer lost and scattered in Babylon. 
• Judah shall be God's portion, which He will delight in, which shall be dear to Him, by which He will be served, and in which He will be glorified.
• He will protect His people and govern them as a man does his inheritance and will be at home among them. 
• He will choose Jerusalem again and put His name there.

[Resource: Matthew Henry's Commentary]

David said in Psalm 18:19, He brought me forth also into a large place; He delivered me, because He delighted in me.

Delight refers to bend; be will pleased; have pleasure.

Are our actions, words, and attitudes causing God to be well pleased in us, delighted in us?

Do we delight in God's Word, doing His will, keeping His statutes, trusting in His promises?

Do we delight in walking His path for us?

LET IT GROW

MacArthur says the Holy Land will be the site of the Messiah's earthly throne when the land has been cleansed. A holy land is appropriate and expected for its holy Lord. (Is.6:1-5)

When Jesus returns, it will be the holy land again, because He is there.

Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for He is raised up out of His holy habitation. (verse 13)

The nations of the world will pause and be silent then. Why? Because he will judge the nations in "the Day of the Lord". There will be no escaping the divine wrath divine wrath, without escape. 

LET IT GO

Jesus, be our delight today.

Sing and Rejoice

 O. T. #2279 "Sing and Rejoice"

Sept. 14, 2022

Zechariah 2-Part 4

Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD. (2:10)

LET IT GLOW

Do you sing or whistle while you work? I often sing along with the songs played on our local Christian radio. It seems to help the task to smoother and easier (my attitude anyway). So no matter what we are scrubbing, do it for the glory of God, praising Him for life. I know, life gives us struggles, but Jesus can help us through them.

Why should the Jews in Jerusalem sing and rejoice? Assyria, who captured the Northern Kingdom of Israel, and Babylon, who captured the Southern Kingdom of Judah, were destroyed. It was the Medes and Persians who did this. Then the Jews were sent home to restore the Temple and the city of Jerusalem. (I repeat this because we are having new people coming to read this blog.) Jeremiah predicted this would happen. Had they forgotten the joy of the Lord? It had been  around 10 years since they were working together on the Temple.

 Because the Savior will come and dwell in the Tabernacle in the midst of the people. It will be a personal and visible presence of the Messiah during the Millennium. That gives them reason to sing and rejoice.

Do you have a reason to sing and rejoice? Has Jesus washed away your sins? Is He your Savior? Then you have a reason to sing His praises and rejoice.

LET IT GROW

Our God is always faithful, no matter what. Sometimes we just need to hear it again. My problem is my impatience. When I know something is His will, then I am ready to get going and do it. But it often takes time for others to get to that point, doesn't it? So I wait.

Verse 11 says, And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be My people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shall know that the LORD of Hosts hath sent me unto thee. 

God will restore His people. There is great anticipation, admonitioon, and acclamation. The Lord is coming, the Lord is there. (Ezekiel 48:35) 

Gentiles will trust in the Lord and be joined with Israel in the glorious kingom over which Messiah will reign. (Isa 2, 60; Zech 8:20-23)

Jesus has provided a way to the Heavenly Father for us. He is our interceder, our bridge. We can't do it on our own, for we are sinful people. It is the Righteous Jesus who shed His blood for us so we could be accepted by God. It is not our good works or heritage. We must individually come to Jesus, believing His alone is the Savior. He alone forgives our sins. He alone can cleanse us of all unrighteousness. Friend, have you done this? 

LET IT GO 

Bless the Lord, oh my soul, worship His holy name; sing like never before, oh my soul, I will worship Your holy name-Eloheim.

People get ready-Jesus is coming back!

The Apple of His Eye

O. T. #2278  "The Apple of His Eye"

Sept. 13, 2022

Zechariah2-Part 3

...for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye.       (verse 8b)

LET IT GLOW

In the third vision, Zechariah saw a man (Jesus) with a measuring line in His hand. the prophet asked Him what He was doing. Then an angel (Holy Spirit) came to Him and said to tell Zechariah someday Jerusalem would be so full of people and livestock that there would not be room enough for everyone. Many will live outside the city walls. Jesus will then be a protective wall of fire around the city. Jesus will be the glory inside the city! (verses 1-5)

What else were the instructions?

The scattered exiles were to return to Jerusalem. The first group of Jewish returnees were about 47,000 under Zerubbabel and Cyrus of Persia. The second group (3,500) was led by Ezra during Artaxerxes' reign. The third group was led by Nehemiah, with an unknown number of Jews under the same king. (Ezra 1-10; Nehemiah 1-13) 

Do we heed the instructions of the Lord in His Word when we hear it? do we need to remind other believers to return?  

LET IT GROW

What else will happen?

• After a period of glory, Jesus will be sent to the nations who plundered His chosen people, the Jews.
• God's children are the apple of His eye. With tender care and affectionate love, God cares for His children, the church and the Jews. They are so dear to Him that they are compared to the tender and weak part of Him, the pupil of God's eye. So anyone who offends/injures His beloved, offends God and will receive the greatest injury. Wow!
• Jesus will raise His fist to crush them and their own slaves will plunder the offenders.(verse 9)

Psalm 17:8 says, Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of Thy wings.

As one is so zealous to shield his own eye from danger, so God shelters His servants. (Tony Evans)

Beloved, you are so precious to God, for we are His very own children. (Ps. 116:15) Treating any believer unkindly is the same as treating God that way. How we treat others is the way we are treating Jesus (Matt. 25:34-46)

LET IT GO

Help us to love one another, Jesus. 

Thank You for Your love that never fails.

Keeping Silent

O. T. #2277  "Keeping Silent"

Sept. 12, 2022

Zechariah 1-Part 2

Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for He is raised up out of His holy habitation. ((verse 13)

LET IT GLOW

Do you find it hard to make time to be silent before the Lord? I know that I certainly did when I was working. A two-paragraph in the morning sustained me, so I though. But God wants more-more of you and more of me. And so much of my prayer time is asking from Him. Being silent is a hard thing to do while we surrounded by so much noise, and so may demands on us. Right?

Silent means to hush; hold peace (tongue); still.

In view of the revelation of God's program, the only fitting response is silent subjection to the LORD. Our only fitting response is silent subjection to the LORD.(Falwell)

Are there conditions requiring you to be still? Some of the greatest works in His kingdom have been done from sick beds and prison cells. Instead of resenting the limitations of a weakened body, search for God's way in the midst of these very circumstances. Limitations can be liberating when our strongest desire is living close to Jesus. Although we may feel cut off from the activity of the world, our quiet trust makes a powerful statement in spiritual realms. (Sarah Young)

And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. (2 Cor. 12:9)

The strength and power of Jesus show themselves most effective in weakness. So if you are homebound or have a disease like me that puts you down often, may we learn to be still and silent before the Lord to hear what He has to say to us, friend.

LET IT GROW

Look at our key verse. What does Jesus say in the last part? He is raised out of His holy habitation. Where is the holy habitation of Jesus right now? He is in Heaven, His dwelling place. 

One day He will rise up, not in the sense of rising from sleep, but in the sense of a lion or a bear that has been aroused from its den. Jesus will embark upon His plan, the enemies of Israel will be no more, and the Gentiles will be drawn close in fellowship with God.

Jerusalem will be expanded, grow, be in perfect safety, for Jehovah will be a wall of fire around them. Jesus will reign in His city, Jerusalem, as King. 

LET IT GO

What a day that will be, when my Jesus I will see.

In the meantime, keep silent before Him.

Expanding City

O. T. #2276  "Expanding City"

Sept. 9, 2022

Zechariah 2

LET IT GLOW

We live in an area which is exploding. Houses are going up all over. Farmlands are being turned into housing additions. The 80 acre farm behind ours has been turned in hundreds of houses. We used to live in a quiet neighborhood, but now 6 houses have gone up. And it isn't only on our side of the town, but everywhere in our county.

Here is the third vision or message to Judah about a man with a measuring line. Those places mentioned are outside the walls of Jerusalem. Jesus is saying His city will be enlarged, without walls, since He will be its protector. The vision is pertaining to the building of the Millennial Temple in Jerusalem and the holy city, without going into details.  Jesus is measuring the length and width of the expanded city.

Isn't it a good thing to expand our ministries? To go beyond our 4 walls and reach our neighbors; to think beyond the box; to reach others for Jesus. What a blessing it is to be a part of it.

LET IT GROW

Although without walls, Jerusalem will dwell securely because of divine protection. He will be as a wall of fire all around Jerusalem. (verse 5) We will recall God leading the Hebrews with a pillar of fire by night through the wilderness in Exodus.

Jesus will be the glory in the midst of Jerusalem. Not only will there be protection, but the glory of the Messiah's blessing and personal presence in His earthly kingdom will be there.

Our Savior, Jesus, is personally involved in our life. He has a plan to be carried out with us working out His plan. What a blessing to be chosen to be involved in His kingdom work.

LET IT GO 

Thank You Jesus for letting us be a part of Your work here.

When The Hammer Falls

O. T. #2275  "When The Hammer Falls"

Sept 8, 2022

Zechariah 1-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

The second vision that Zechariah had from God involved 4 horns and 4 carpenters (craftsmen).(verses 18-21) Details are given to the judgment of the nations who persecuted Israel, building upon God's promise to comfort His people. (1:13, 17)

First were the 4 horns, which were symbols of power and pride. Each horn represented either a nation or the head of that nation that attacked God's people. (Dan. 7:21) Some commentaries say they are referred to Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and Medo-Persia or Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome, all of which oppressed Israel. (MacArthur) 

Those are whom men say did the scattering of Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. (verse 19) They all oppressed Israel. Each empire was conquered by the next. We are reminded of God's promise to Abraham: I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you. (Genesis12:3 NKJV)

A professional timeline provides a lot of history at a glance for us, down through the ages. Men desiring to be control instead of allowing God to rule. 

Have we been divided and scattered-families, churches, neighbors? Have we been divided by our standards for living, holding onto the principles of the Bible, politics, lack of values, sins?

LET IT GROW

The other part of the second vision dealt with 4 carpenters, smiths. craftsmen, which include skilled workers of wood, metal, and stone. They represent each empire being overthrown by the subsequent one, the last. Satan's empire during The Great Tribulation will be replaced by the Messiah's kingdom. (Daniel 7) The hammer dropped one by one as the nations were defeated. 

What a comfort that Jesus will one day reign! The evil ones will be no more. Religions will disappear, and only the Savior/Messiah will be worshiped. 

Aren't we glad to be on the side of Jesus?

LET IT GO

Your love never fail, never gives up on me, Jesus, Your love.

Good News!

O. T. #2274"Good News!"

Sept. 7, 2022

Zechariah 1-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

In a single night, Zechariah had 8 visions. The first vision presented good news. God promised prosperity to Israel. (verse 7-17) Shall we take a closer look into this one? What did the prophet see and the meaning?

• The man riding on a red horse was the preincarnate Jesus. He has authority over the other riders, symbols of war. 
• He stood among the myrtle trees, which were associated with booth-making at the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23) and messianic blessing. (Isaiah 41:19). It all speaks of restoration and blessing. The location was in a hollow, valley. Those shrubs would never exceed 8 feet, had white blossoms with fragrance, were in abundance. It all represented Israel, God's people, who were lowly and humble, yet enriched. (Especially after being in captivity in a foreign land 70 years, right?)
• God had His angelic military patrol walking to and fro and there was rest. (verse 11)
• What were the good and comforting words? (verse 13) God still loved Jerusalem. (verse 14)
• Although, God was angry with the nations who afflicted and mistreated the Jews. (verse 15)
• Not only was the Temple going to be rebuilt, but the city, also. The measuring line of Jerusalem would expand due to its prosperity. ((verse 16)

God has plans and He is working those plans. He is up to something, always. Do we want to have a part  in those plans? Let's be about our Father's business.

LET IT GROW

The returning Jews lost sight of their priorities, (Haggai 1:1-12) but God does not. Even though Israel is a small nation, they are the chosen place and chosen people of God. Zechariah's message affirmed God's future plans during the millennial kingdom of the Messiah:

• Jerusalem will be the place of God's presence, where Jesus will establish His throne and reign on earth for 1,000 years.
• There will be a glorious Temple. (Ezek. 48:35)
• A rebuilt Jerusalem will be the center of all activity.
• The nations will be punished. (Matthew 25:31-46)
• Judah's cities will prosper. (Isaiah 60:4-9)
• The people will be blessed. (Zech. 9:17)
• There will be comfort for Zion. (Isaiah 14:1) 

What a day that will be in which to live and experience! 

Are our family members ready?

LET IT GO

How precious you and I are to the LORD Jesus.

So what are we worried about today? God has got it under His control.

When our world is crumbling, look up, our Redemption draweth nigh.

Jealousy

O. T. #2273"Jealousy"

Sept. 6, 2022

Zechariah 1-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

After about 3 months, the Word of the LORD came to Zechariah to deliver a series of 8 visions one night. Two months earlier the Lord appeared to Haggai and gave him a message for the remnant of Israel to resume the rebuilding of the Temple. Concerning Zechariah's first vision in verses 7-17, we read about:

• a man riding upon a red horse (verse 8), is identified as the angel of the LORD (verse 11)-this is a Christophany, the pre-incarnate appearance of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, part of the Trinity. (Jesus had not appeared on earth in the form of a man yet.) So Jesus was riding on a red horse, which speaks of blood and bloodshed. (Later, Jesus shed His own blood on the cross in order to provide our salvation.)
• He stood among the myrtle trees in the bottom (Valley of Hinnom) outside the Temple area. Those trees were native to Syria, which linked Israel's past exile in Babylon with their present time. 
• Jesus was accompanied by the angelic army of God, riding speckled and white horses. They had a multipurpose, behind the scenes. Jesus is their Commander and the angels report to Him after walking to and fro through the earth. (verse 10-11)
• There was peace for the Jews concerning their enemies. (verse 11) During the 5,000 years of history, there were only about 200 years of peace. (McGee)

What can we learn from this? When we hit rock bottom, we can look up to Jesus and He will come to our rescue. 

Matthew Henry says that Christ intercedes for us and His church and sends guardian angels on God's errands. 

Is your clapper clapping yet?

LET IT GROW

Who hasn't been jealous of another some time or another. Maybe it was the outgoing personality another had, material things others possess, or the attention given to another by a spouse. We discover that God is jealous. Read on to see why.

In verse 12, we learn that Jesus asks God the Father how long until He shows mercy to Jerusalem and Judah after the 70 years of captivity. Jesus received words of comfort and commissioned Zechariah to shout the message for all to hear:

The LORD of Heaven's Armies says: My love for Jerusalem and Mount Zion is passionate and strong. But I am very angry with the other nations that are now enjoying peace and security. I was only a little angry with My people, but the nations inflicted harm on them far beyond My intentions. (verses 14-15, NLT)

In the King James Version, it uses the word jealous, which mean to be zealous (in a bad sense); envious. This jealousy springs from God's intense love for His people. (They had served and worshiped false gods, idols previously.)

Wow! Do you feel loved by God right now as I do? He desires us to love Him first and more than anything.

In Exodus 20:5, the Jews were told Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them (graven image), nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God...

In 34:14, For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

What is the condition of our heart?

LET IT GO

Help us to love You with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, our Father.

May we only serve You.

 

When It Looks Bad, Keep Praying"

O. T. #2272  " When It Looks Bad, Keep Praying"

Sept. 5, 2022 

Zechariah 1-Part 4

LET IT GLOW 

I was looking at a chronological Bible telling the sequence of the events and books where they were found:

• The Levites 20 years and older were put in charge of the construction of the Temple to the LORD, the God of Israel, when they arrived in Jerusalem. (Ezra 3)
• The builders laid the Temple foundation.
• The priests put on their robes and blew their trumpets with clashing cymbals praise the LORD in song-He is so good! His faithful love for Israel endures forever!
• There was joyful shouting and weeping.

What a joyful and exciting time to live in for the returnee Jews at Jerusalem!

However, the enemies of Judah and Benjamin heard what was happening and approached Zerubbabel and the leader, offering to help them. They lied saying they had sacrificed to God ever since the king of Assyria sent them there.

Zerubbabel and the leaders said those enemies would have no part in the work. The Jews would build the Temple for the LORD just as King Cyrus of Persia commanded them. (Ezra 4)

The local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of Judah to keep them from their work. They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans. (Ezra 4:1-5) 

During this time, Daniel was praying to the LORD. Satan was battling the archangel  Michael in the spirit world, blocking Micahel's way to Daniel with the answer to his prayer. Finally, Daniel received a vision from God concerning a time in the future. (Daniel 10-12)

So the work on the Temple stopped for about 10 years or so. (Ezra 4:24) Then Haggai and Zechariah prophesied the messages from God to the Jews. God told them to return to Him and He would return to them. So they did repent and return to the task of building the Temple. 

Have we neglected what God has told us to do? 

How powerful are your prayers? Have you become discouraged and stopped praying?

Keep on praying for loved ones. God hears the prayers of a righteous person. 

LET IT GROW

Then one night Zechariah had 8 visions. 

The first 5 night visions are conciliatory and bring comfort to Zechariah, Joshua, Zerubbabel and the people of their day. The last 3 deal with God's judgment that will be poured out upon sin and sinners individually, nationally, and universally. The 8 visions are complementary to Daniel's vision, for both of them deal with the times of the Gentiles-from the point of view of both , looking from Israel's perspective.

(Liberty Bible Commentary)

I hope you will stay with me as we study those 8 visions. We are in there, as Gentiles, brought into fellowship with and service of Jehovah through the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

I pray for wisdom as the Lord directs this, for I am no Bible scholar. commentaries of wise and spiritual men are spread out over my desks. It takes a lot of studying, but I think we will benefit from it.

LET IT GO

Bless the LORD, oh my soul; worship His holy name.

Sing like never before, oh my soul.

Lord Jesus, I will praise and worship You.

And they sang [to Jesus] a new song: "You are worthy...because You were slain, and with Your blood You purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation." (Revelation 5:9)

Relationship and Fellowship

O. T. #2271 "Relationship and Fellowship"

September 2, 2022

Zechariah 1-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

The Lord wants to have fellowship with us, but He will not force a relationship upon us. We can't expect God to remain near us if we reject fellowship with Him. We are not to treat Him like a servant who should wait upon us. God relates to us on His terms, not ours. He desires a close walk with us. If it is our desire, God will make His presence real. If we repent of our sin and seek God on His terms, we can look forward to intimate fellowship with Him. (James 4:8-10) If our actions reveal we genuinely seek God, then He promises that we will find Him. (Matt. 7:7) (Blackaby)

What was God telling the remnant Jews through Zechariah? Turn to God and He will turn to them. Their fathers heard that same message earlier through other prophets turn from their evil ways and from doing evil things. Yet they did not hearken to the messages. (verse 4)

Hearken means to prick up the ears; attend; give heed; regard.

Where are your ancestors now? They and the prophets are long dead. All that God said would happen did happen to them. They would not hear and heed the words of the prophets. The people wasted their opportunity as a nation to see the mighty power of the Lord and experience His blessings. They went into captivity. As a result, some repented when the Babylonian army was at the Eastern Gate; some repented while in the foreign land. However, their repentance came too late. God kept His Word. The Jews admitted their punishment was deserved and that God is just. (Lam. 2:17)

Isaiah said that people are grass. It withers, the flowers fade, but the Word of our God remains forever. (Isa. 40:7-8)

Spiritual problems are always easily solved; just do what God wants! (Falwell)

Dare I say that most of our problems are spiritual ones?

Put God first and get on with the building was God's instructions to the Jews in Jerusalem. So the remnant repented and obeyed God. 

The first step to following god's kingdom agenda is kingdom repentance. (Tony Evans)

Is there personal sin that we need to repent of so we can get on with God's work?

The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. (2 Chronicles 15:2)

LET IT GROW

How good is our hearing? Unless our hearts are right with God, we can't hear His Word with true spiritual comprehension. (Wiersbe)

What are our ears entuned to? The world has so many crazy and evil messages. They lead us along our own path instead of the path God has for us to walk. 

Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. (Hebrews 3:7)

Question: Are we listening to false prophets/preachers or are we listening to those who preach the True, Living Word of God? We must be careful and discerning. (Also, be careful of which version of the Bible we read.)

Having rejected the truth, the Jews fell prey to lies, especially false prophets. Jeremiah and Elijah had to battle the false prophets in their day. They will abound in the end times, too.  (Matthew 24)

Not only are lost sinners to be called to repent of their sins, so should God's people repent. Time after time we hear of preachers who fall into sin, but do we hear of the lay person? We all must be careful, for sin lurks at the door desiring to make us stumble and fall into sin. Let's be careful, for when we point at another, 4 fingers point back at us.

LET IT GO

Open my eyes Lord, to see what You see in my heart and life.

Please forgive my sins, my failures, my judging others, my questioning Your will.

Help us surrender our all in all, for You, Jesus gave Your all on the cross for us.

Make our hearts anew, preparing us for the day. 

May we seek Your will today and obey, not our will.

He gets sweeter as the days go by.

"To Whom Do We Turn?"

O. T. #2270 

September 1, 2022 

Zechariah 1-Part 2 "To Whom Do We Turn?"

Thus says the Lord of Hosts: "Return to Me," says the Lord of Hosts, "and I will return to you." (Zech. 1:3)

LET IT GLOW

Why is it that some Christians seem to go so much deeper in their walk with God than others, yet some slide backward in their faith, returning to their old ways and acting as if Jesus no longer means anything to them? How is it that some believers had powerful intercessory prayer ministries which change the courses of nations, while others do not pray at all? Why are some able to teach or preach the Word with great results while others do no even read it? 

Blackaby explains that it is because those individuals have committed themselves to pursuing God until His presence is powerfully real in their lives. They settle for nothing less than a vibrant relationship with God, and He had honored their desire. 

Are we hungering for more of God or is our relationship with Him complacent? God loves even the backslider and stands ready to forgive. We must guard against sliding backward in our faith. Return to God and He will return to you. There is so much more in store for us if we will return to Him. He awaits our response.

Matthew 7:7 guarantees that if we seek Christ, we will find Him. Much of the Christian life rests upon our response and our desire to experience God to the fullest.

[Resources: Experiencing God Day-By-Day, a devotional by Henry and Richard Blackaby; Wisdom For Each Day, a devotional by Billy Graham]

LET IT GROW

The invitation God gave to the Jews was what? It was to turn back to Him. That was the young preacher's first message to God's people. God was not going to bless His people unto they were clean before Him and obeyed Him. 

In the Hebrew language, turn is the word shuwb (shoob), which means to turn back; bring (again, back, home again); refresh.

God wanted His remnant to turn from their wicked/selfish ways back to Him. God had left His people on their own and trouble came. The remnant had not put God first so He could not bless them. 

If we want to be close to God, we must be obedient and develop godly character. (A. W. Tozer)

The prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Haggai had the same message that Zechariah did. It was because they served the same God. 

James 4:8 tells us if we will draw near to God, He will draw near to us. Are we willing to draw?

Draw means to coil, wrap, or draw up in the Greek language.

LET IT GO 

Help us to wrap our soul around You and Your Word, Jesus. Wrap around us with Your love and forgiveness. give us strength to carry on faithfully until You call us home.

Your mercies are new everyday. Thank You Sweet Jesus.

Your praise will ever be on my lips. Worthy are You, Lord Jesus.

May we continue to be faithfully praying for others.